Video: fireman's near miss with child on bike

Parents urged to have children attend Bikeability course

A HEREFORD and Worcester Fire and Rescue commander has implored cyclists to take more care on the road, after having to take evasive action to avoid hitting a young bike rider crossing the road.

In footage captured by the driver’s dash cam, a child riding their bike is seen crossing a main road – the A38 near Bromsgrove – without first checking for oncoming traffic.

Thankfully, the fireman was able to bring his vehicle to a stop before it struck the child, leaving the parties involved shaken but unharmed.

Speaking in response to the incident, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue group commander Robert Allen stated: “It’s currently perfect summer holiday weather for kids to be enjoying being out an about on their bikes – but I shared this video to reinforce the messages about staying safe and being vigilant while cycling on main roads, and also wearing a cycling helmet.

“There is no intention to name and shame the boy – just to use the incident as a warning that a moment of concentration can ensure an incident-free summer holiday. I wasn’t sure whether to post the footage, but if it stops a child from being killed on the road it’s worthwhile.”

Parents of young cyclists can enrol them on a cycling proficiency course, called Bikeability. The free initiative is run at schools throughout the UK, and by local councils, and teaches riders how to ride safely.

Last month, a national initiative was launched to allow drivers to submit dashcam footage to the police. The The National Dash Cam Safety Portal is an extension of the Operation Snap initiative that was pioneered by North Wales Police in October 2016, and rolled out to all four Welsh police forces in December last year. It is hoped to allow members of the public to help police take action against dangerous drivers.